Personalisation

Housing, especially in its detailing, must allow for the personal expression of tenants in ways that do not create long-term maintenance issues for the department.

For example, the design of balconies and verandahs should facilitate the hanging of pot plants by residents.

Reasons:

• a household's personalisation of their dwelling reflects their individuality and may encourage a sense of commitment and responsibility, with benefits to the individual, the landlord and the community
• the use of pot plants on balconies or landscaping in front courtyards or gardens usually improves the appearance and community acceptance of the housing.